Germany vs Ireland: Best Country for Indian Students
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Germany and Ireland are both top contenders for Indian students seeking an international education. Each offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and potential post-study opportunities. But deciding between them can be a head-scratcher. This in-depth guide will explore the key factors Indian students should consider when choosing to study in Germany or Ireland.
Germany and Ireland are popular destinations in Europe for international students who are looking to study abroad. A lot of times, candidates are unable to decide between two destinations because they appear similar to one another. Choosing between Germany and Ireland as a study destination involves evaluating various factors such as education quality, cost of living, language, job opportunities, and cultural experiences. Both countries offer unique advantages and cater to different student needs.
Germany is renowned for its world-class education system, particularly in fields like engineering, science, and technology. Many German universities are highly ranked globally and offer numerous programs in English. Public universities in Germany often charge minimal or no tuition fees for international students, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious students.
Ireland, while smaller in size, boasts a strong education system with universities that are well-regarded, especially in business, IT, and healthcare. All courses are taught in English, which can be a significant advantage for students who are not proficient in German. However, tuition fees in Ireland tend to be higher compared to Germany.
Through this article, we have tried to address this very confusion. In this article, we have provided a very unbiased outlook of Germany and Ireland to help candidates make the right choice. We have taken into account popular parameters such as popular courses, job availability, cost of studies, post-study work permit and the visa application process among others as the deciding factors.
Germany vs Ireland Country Highlights
| Factor |
Germany |
Ireland |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees |
Public universities: Zero ( Semester fees €100 to €350); Private universities: €5,000 - €20,000 annually. |
€9,000 - €25,000 per year for international students. |
| Cost of Living |
Approximately €992 per month varies by city (e.g., Munich is more expensive). |
Approximately €991 per month; Dublin has higher accommodation costs. |
| Language of Instruction |
Primarily German; many programs available in English at the postgraduate level. |
English is the primary language of instruction across all levels. |
| Popular Fields of Study |
Engineering, natural sciences, mathematics, business innovation. |
Technology (computer science), business studies, biosciences. |
| University Acceptance Rate |
Less than 20% for top universities; competitive admission process. |
Approximately 63%, generally easier to gain admission.. |
| Work Opportunities |
Part-time work in Germany allowed up to 20 hours/week during semesters; 40 hours during holidays. |
Part-time work in Ireland allowed up to 20 hours/week during terms; 40 hours during breaks. |
| Post-study Work Visa |
Stay back for up to 18 months after graduation. |
Stay back for up to 24 months under the Third Level Graduate Scheme. |
| Safety |
Ranked 15th in Global Peace Index 2023; generally safe with urban areas having higher crime rates. |
Ranked 3rd in Global Peace Index 2023; considered very safe. |
| Cultural Experience |
Rich history with a focus on engineering and technology; diverse cultural festivals. |
Known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and vibrant social life. |
| Healthcare System |
Combination of public and private funding; lower hospital fees due to insurance system. |
Government-provided healthcare often free or at reduced cost for residents. |
| Job Market |
Offers a strong and diverse job market, particularly in engineering, manufacturing, and automotive sectors. The "hidden champion" concept highlights the presence of many successful medium-sized companies. Read: Popular Job Sectors in Germany |
It is a thriving tech sector with a growing demand for skilled professionals. The job market may be smaller than Germany's but can be more accessible for recent graduates with an Irish degree, especially in tech-related fields. Read: Popular Job Sectors in Ireland |
Eligibility/Requirements in Germany vs Ireland
One can check the eligibility requirements of both Germany and Ireland.
Germany
Universities in Germany are often funded by the state but not necessarily regulated by it. So every university decides its eligibility criteria and cut-off. Hence, it is advisable to check the university website for the specific program’s eligibility criteria. To pursue undergraduate courses in Germany you should have completed your 12th class and either one of the below -
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
- Cleared JEE Advanced
- Completed one year of bachelor's degree education from a recognized university in India
- Cleared the Feststellungsprüfung – the entrance exam for different universities you would take to signify effective completion of Studienkolleg.
A high level of competition at the application stage results in universities asking for as high as 90% in your secondary school examinations. However, in case you have cleared your JEE Advanced, the cut-off is 50%.
For a postgraduate program in Germany, you would need a German equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in the relevant subjects. Apart from this basic requirement, the universities might also require you to have scored well on your GMAT or GRE tests. For international students, IELTS or TOEFL, along with working knowledge of the German language are required. For German-taught programmes, a high level of proficiency in the language is required and you will be required to take either TestDAF or DSH.
Ireland
For each course, a minimum academic score of 60% and above in Standard XII is required. Foundations and Diploma programs are available for students who have secured around 50%. The student should have completed 18 years of age before joining a degree program. It is important to remember that even though the entry requirement is lower at Irish universities, the education standard is not. Hence, you should carefully enhance your ability to cope with the high standard of education over the next few years beforehand.
For undergraduate courses, Irish universities accept applications through the Central Applications Office (CAO) an online enrolment system. You will have to create an account on the CAO website to provide your basic information, submit the scanned version of your documents, a score of TOEFL/IELTS, and pay application fees. You will be informed about the application process and its stages through this account.
If you are applying for a postgraduate course at an Irish university, you need to have a relevant bachelor’s degree or diploma. Your undergraduate course must be consistent and relevant to the course you wish to pursue in your master’s. Candidates would also be required to appear for an English proficiency test to prove their command of the English language.
Popular Courses at Germany vs Ireland
One can check the opular courses in both Germany and Ireland for international students.
Popular Courses in Germany
Renowned for its engineering prowess, with strong programs in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, and electrical engineering. Also excels in sciences like natural sciences, mathematics, and computer science. Business programs are gaining traction, particularly those with a focus on innovation and technology. Some of the most popular courses include:
- Engineering
- Computer Science and IT
- Business Administration
- Medicine and Healthcare
Popular Courses in Ireland
A leader in technology, with exceptional programs in computer science, software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Business studies are also popular, with a focus on areas like marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. Biosciences and renewable energy are emerging fields of strength.
- Information Technology/Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Engineering
- Finance
- Digital Marketing
Top Universities in Germany & Ireland
One can check the top universities ranking of both Germany and Ireland below.
Top 10 Universities in Germany
| University Name | QS World Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich | #28 |
| #59 | |
| Heidelberg University Germany | #84 |
| Free University of Berlin | #97 |
| RWTH Aachen University | #99 |
| KIT, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | #102 |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | #126 |
| Technical University of Berlin | #147 |
| Universität Hamburg | #191 |
| #212 |
Read: Top Universities and Colleges in Germany
Top Universities in Ireland
| Top Universities in Ireland |
QS World Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|
| #87 |
|
| #126 |
|
| #273 |
|
| #273 |
|
| #421 |
|
| #421 |
|
| 801-850 |
|
| 851-900 |
Read: Top Universities in Ireland
Cost of Studying at Germany vs Ireland
Cost of studying an undergraduate program in Germany vs Ireland
| Particulars |
Undergraduate courses in Germany |
Undergraduate courses in Ireland |
|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition Fee |
BSc: 1.00 Lakh BTech: 1.10 Lakhs BBA: 3.45 Lakhs |
BSc: 13.02 Lakhs BTech: 11.23 Lakhs BBA: 10.40 Lakhs |
| Average Living Expense |
3.67 Lakhs |
4.05 Lakhs |
| Duration |
3-4 Years |
3-4 Years |
| Exams Accepted |
IELTS, TOEFL |
IELTS, TOEFL |
Cost of studying a postgraduate program in Germany and Ireland
| Particulars |
Postgraduate courses in Germany |
Postgraduate courses in Ireland |
|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition Fee |
MA: 38.65K MS: 85.25 K MBA: 12.77 Lakhs |
MA: 13.08 Lakhs MS: 14.43 Lakhs MBA: 12.96 Lakhs |
| Average Living Expense |
3.67 Lakhs |
4.05 Lakhs |
| Duration |
1.5-2 Years |
1-2 Years |
| Exams Accepted |
IELTS, TOEFL |
IELTS, TOEFL |
Also Read:
| Cost of Studying in Germany | |
| Cost of Living for International Students in Ireland | Cost of Living in Germany |
Germany vs Ireland: Student Visa Process
Student Visa Germany
- To stay in Germany for more than 90 days as a student, you are required to get a Germany Student Visa.
- You are required to show funds worth €11,904 per year as proof of funds required for the cost of living.
- A residence permit issued to students is valid for a maximum of two years. It needs to be renewed if the duration of the course is longer than the stated two years.
- Students can work 180 days halftime or 90 days full time in an academic year. Presently, Germany is the only country where a student can pursue a part-time technical job in a related industry. Some universities also offer part-time jobs on campus called Hi/wi.
Student Visa Ireland
- Students are required to apply for an Ireland Student Visa if they are planning to come to Ireland to undertake a course of study for more than 3 months.
- Applicants would be required to show funds of at least €10,000 in their bank account at the time of applying for the study visa. This amount equals the cost of living in Ireland for an international student for one academic year.
- Also, you need to be able to prove that you or your parents/sponsor will be able to provide at least €10,000for each year of your studies, in addition to the course fee.
- Holding a valid stamp 2 means you will be permitted to work for 20 hours per week during the academic session, and 40 hours per week during the months of May, June, July, and August, and from 15th December to 15th January. These are the vacation times in Ireland so the time allowed to work increases during the vacations.
Germany vs Ireland: Post-Study Work Permit
One can check the post-study work prermit for both Germany and Ireland below.
Post-Study Work Permit in Germany
International students are required to apply for a Residence Permit after completion of their education at a German University. The Immigration Laws permit the students who have completed their degree to apply for a Residence Permit of 18 months duration to look for a job related to their qualifications. This permit is not combined with the Student Visa for Germany and you need to apply for it separately at the foreign nationals’ registration office. In case you have a job offer that is relevant to your stream of education even before you complete your education, you can directly apply for a Residence Permit or an EU Blue Card.
Post Study Work Permit in Ireland
Once you have finished your studies in Ireland, you may wish to stay back a little longer and consider taking up a job to gain invaluable work experience. If you are enrolled as a full-time student, with an Irish accredited degree, and have the Visa Stamp 2 you may qualify for the Third Level Graduate Scheme. The steps to the process are as follows –
- Students can apply for a non-renewable extension of up to 2 years after course completion. This extension is granted to find suitable employment.
- Later on, you can apply for a green card (renamed Critical Skills Employment Permit) or work permit (renamed General Employment Permit).
A new visa stamp – Stamp 1G – is now granted to foreign graduates who are authorized to work under the Third Level Graduate Scheme. So if you are granted Stamp 1G you don’t need to separately apply for a visa extension.
Germany vs Ireland: Permanent Residency Opportunities
Germany
If you have been living in Germany for five years on a German residence permit, you can apply for a German permanent visa. There are exemptions for shorter stay time requirements. After eight years of living there, you become eligible to apply for German citizenship. In case you marry a German citizen, you can apply for German citizenship immediately.
Ireland
If you have been living in Ireland with a work permit for five years you become eligible for the Ireland Permanent Residence Permit. Foreign applicants who receive Irish permanent residency will get a Stamp 4 on their passport, which is valid for 5 years and is renewable. Additionally, after eight years of legal residence, the foreign national can apply for a “Without Condition As To Time” endorsement, which as the name suggests, does not have a pre-specified validity.
Germany vs Ireland: Scholarships
Germany
One of the primary names for funding your study in Germany is the German Academic Exchange Service or DAAD. The organization helps you not merely shortlist a suitable college but also helps you with a variety of scholarship options depending on your chosen discipline or field of research. Apart from DAAD, many independent research institutes also offer scholarships to students or research scholars. For a list of scholarships, visit: Scholarships to Study in Germany
Ireland
Ireland has over time become one of the preferred study-abroad destinations for international students and for the right reasons. To encourage the flow of foreign nationals for education, the country along with Irish universities has announced several scholarships for the benefit of international students. For a list of scholarships, visit: Scholarships to Study in Ireland
Germany vs Ireland: Climate
Germany
German summers are hot and the winters are cold and snowy, but rains are unpredictable and common during all seasons. The average winter temperature is 3°C and in summer it is 22°C. Maximum temperatures commonly reach -10°C in winter and 35°C in the summer months. The country is divided into 16 states and has an exceedingly varied landscape, so it is difficult to generalize the weather for the whole country.
Ireland
Ireland's climate is heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, so the warm ocean currents keep temperatures mild. In the spring and summer (May to July) the average temperature is between 64°F and 68°F (17°C and 20°C). During the autumn season (August to October), the temperature varies from 57°F and 64°F (13°C and 17°C), with September being a mild month with a sunny and warm atmosphere. In winter (November to March beginning), the temperature reaches 46°F (7.78°C) with January and February as the coldest months. Apart from a few cold weeks, snow is scarce in Ireland.
The best study-abroad destination depends on your priorities. Consider factors like your desired program, budget, career goals, and preferred lifestyle. Students interested in engineering, sciences, or research-oriented programs, comfortable learning German or are pursuing a program taught in German should opt for Germany. Where on the other hand, Indian students interested in technology, business, or renewable energy programs, preferring a smaller, more close-knit study environment and courses taught in English should opt for Ireland as their destination of study. Indian students looking for assistance with university admissions can get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors for assistance on the same.
Germany vs Ireland FAQs
Q. Which country is richer Ireland or Germany?
A. Germany is generally considered to be a wealthier country than Ireland. In terms of GDP per capita, Germany has a higher figure, indicating a stronger economy and greater overall wealth distribution. As of recent data, Germany's GDP per capita is approximately €41,000, while Ireland's is around €78,000.
Q. Is Ireland colder than Germany?
A. When it comes to climate, Germany is colder than Ireland. Germany experiences a more continental climate with colder winters and hotter summers, with average winter temperatures dropping to around -10°C and summer temperatures reaching up to 35°C. On the other hand, Ireland has a milder temperate oceanic climate, with winter temperatures averaging around 7.78°C and summer temperatures typically between 17°C and 20°C.
Q. Is PR difficult in Germany?
A. Getting a PR in Germany can be considered more challenging compared to Ireland. In Germany, individuals must reside in the country for five years on a residence permit before applying for permanent residency. Additionally, there are specific requirements that must be met regarding language proficiency and economic stability. In contrast, Ireland offers a more straightforward path to PR after five years of holding a work permit, making it relatively easier for foreign nationals to secure permanent residency
Q: Is BSBI degree valid in Germany?
BSBI does not hold degree-awarding powers in Germany and its programmes are validated by private Italian distance learning institution UniNettuno International Telematic University. BSBI has also partnered with Concordia University Chicago to deliver programmes at its Berlin campus.
Q: What is the acceptance rate for NCI Ireland?
National College of Ireland is one of the best public research universities in the Ireland. The National College of Ireland is among the colleges that do not publish official data on the acceptance rate. However, as per some unofficial sources including EduRank, the National College of Ireland acceptance rate is 52%. This shows that NCI is moderately selective for admissions and international students may find it comparatively tougher to get into. Please note that, the data on the acceptance rate is taken from unofficial source, therefore, it is subject to vary.
Q: What is the cost of a student visa in Germany?
International students going to pursue higher education in Germany are required to apply for a German study visa. The cost of study visa for Germany is EUR 75 per applicant. Below we have provided a check list for German student visa:
- Valid passport
- Application form
- Declaration for additional contact and legal representation information
- Copy of passport
- Proof of admittance to the study course
- Curriculum Vitae
- Proof of Financial Means
Q: Why study at IU International University of Applied Sciences Germany?
IU International University of Applied Sciences courses are state accredited and recognized internationally. The university is known as Germany’s largest private state-accredited university. Students can learn a mix of online self-study and classroom learning (2-3 days per week) alongside their peers. IU University Germany is the 1st German university to be a member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). Hence, it is one of the best study abroad universities for international students.
Q: Why study at UE Germany?
Some of the reasons to study at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences are:
- UE Germany is one of the most diverse student bodies in Europe with students from more than 100 nationalities represented on campus
- Students at the university are globally connected through international projects, innovative digital learning projects or by directly interacting with international fellow students
- The university also provides a practice-oriented environment. In other words, the consistent combination of international theoretical requirements and practical implementation promoted professional curiosity and provides orientation in the development of a unique profile
- UE Germany offers a practice-oriented degree that supports the individual development
- 4 out of 5 stars has been given to the university by students for overall satisfaction
Q: Is KIT Germany free for international students?
As per Article 3 LHGebG (Baden-Württemberg Act on State University Fees), international students from third-countries / Non-EU countries attending bachelor’s, teacher’s, and consecutive master’s programs and free movers will have to pay the tuition fee of amount EUR 1,500 per semester. Students can check the cost of living in Germany for International Students from here.
Q: How can I apply for Dublin Business School Ireland admissions?
Dublin Business School accepts international applications through the Official Application Portal available on the university's website. Students can refer to the listings below for the steps to apply at DBS Ireland:
Step 1: Open the Application Portal and head to the form
Step 2: Select the student type and course
Step 3: Course selection:
- Select a course type
- Select a course
- Select the year of entry as ‘Year 1’
- Choose the batch commencement date
Step 4: Enter personal details:
- Add details like name, date of birth, contact details, gender, nationality, etc
- Address
- Emergency contact details
Step 5: Keep filling the details and continue until the last step:
- Insert previous education information
- Input other details
Step 6: Submit the application form
Q: How can I get admission to IU Berlin?
International students who wish to study at IU Berlin can apply for admission online through official wesbite. Students must follow the below points to apply easily for IU International University of Applied Sciences admissions:
- Visit the website and check the list of IU Germany courses
- Choose your programme
- Apply online using official website
- Submit your contract
- Start your studies
Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio
Passionate about learning and imbibing the best in my life, I thoroughly enjoy interacting with different personalities and making deep informative conversations. Providing guidance for informed decision making is s... Read Full Bio
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